Risedale School is proudly observing its annual week of commemorative Remembrance activities, ensuring every pupil plays an active part in honouring the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community. With the school located right in the heart of Catterick Garrison, this year’s programme has featured significant community engagement and a powerful Armistice Day service.

The school's deep commitment to Remembrance began in October when the Royal British Legion launched its annual Poppy Appeal. The school supported the appeal by selling poppies, and many Risedale pupils, fulfilling their roles as cadets, contributed significantly to the fundraising efforts by selling poppies in the local community and at Tesco.

Festival of Remembrance, Ripon Cathedral

The school’s formal remembrance activities officially began on Friday, 7th November, at the annual North Yorkshire Council Festival of Remembrance, held at Ripon Cathedral. The event, now in its 13th year and organised by North Yorkshire’s Service Children’s Champion, Angela Campbell, was attended by more than 600 children and young people from 25 schools across the county.

Risedale was proudly represented by 15 Service Children, accompanied by Service Pupil Manager Dr Ellis, Mrs Johnson, and Mr Morris. The Risedale staff noted that the pupils' conduct at this large-scale event was exemplary. They were all respectful and a credit to the school.

Wreath Laying and Community Commitment

The school continued its external commitments over the weekend. On Sunday, 9th November, Dr Ellis attended the Hipswell Village Remembrance Service, where she formally laid a wreath on behalf of Risedale School, establishing the school's presence at the local memorial event.

A Week of Historical Insight

Leading up to and following Armistice Day, the theme of remembrance is being reinforced daily across the school. Year 11 Pupil Support Manager, Mr Godfrey, a retired police officer and passionate World War I history enthusiast, is leading the school’s Remembrance assemblies from Monday, 10th November to Friday, 14th November. His assemblies ensure that pupils receive a rich, historical context for the significance of Armistice Day and the ongoing legacy of the Armed Forces.

Armistice Day Service

The pinnacle of the week was the special Armistice Day Service, which took place today (Tuesday, 11th November). Pupils from Years 7 and 8, in addition to all service pupils from Year 9 and Year 10, and all school cadets, took part in a special service, led by Headteacher, Mrs Greenwood, featuring poignant poems read by pupils. The moving proceedings culminated when the entire school community observed a one-minute silence to reflect on the sacrifice of the fallen. The silence was then followed by the traditional, moving sound of The Last Post, played by Squadron Leader Lumsdon. Risedale was incredibly fortunate to have Squadron Leader Lumsdon join them on this special day, and the school extends its sincere thanks for his time.

Remembrance Reflection

“Remembrance is far more than a date on the calendar for us; it’s woven into the very fabric of Risedale School,” said Dr Ellis, Service Pupil Manager. “Being located right here in Catterick Garrison, and having such a high proportion of service pupils, means we have a personal responsibility to ensure this legacy is maintained.

"I am incredibly proud of the entire Risedale Family and the deep respect they consistently show for those who have fallen, for our shared history, and for those who serve now. This is especially poignant for many of our pupils whose own parents are currently serving; they understand the meaning of sacrifice firsthand. The dignified engagement shown by our pupils throughout the week, whether at the Festival of Remembrance or in the one-minute silence, proves that the strong military ties of this community will continue to be honoured by the next generation.”

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